India, Aug. 13 -- The Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has withdrawn its notification announcing an elocution competition titled "Voice of Devendra" after objections from the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), Youth Congress, and Opposition leaders, who termed it an attempt at political glorification by the educational institution.

The contest, organised by private organisations - Swarambh Foundation, IFELLOW Foundation, and Nashik Pratisthan - was named in honour of Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. The organisations wrote to SPPU National Social Scheme (NSS) wing, which announced it on its website on August 5, appealing students for participation.

NSUI leaders alleged it was part of a larger effort to promote...